våteng

Våteng is a Norwegian term that denotes nocturnal enuresis, the involuntary urination during sleep. It is most common in childhood and often resolves with age, though some individuals experience bedwetting into adolescence or adulthood.

Most cases are primary, where the child has never achieved sustained nighttime dryness, but secondary enuresis can occur after a period of dryness. The causes are multifactorial and may include deep sleep, reduced bladder capacity, nocturnal polyuria, delayed development of arousal responses, genetic predisposition, constipation, and urinary tract issues. Hormonal factors such as lower overnight vasopressin production may contribute.

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on history and physical examination. A urine test may be used to exclude infections, diabetes, or kidney problems if indicated. In rare cases, longer evaluations are needed to identify underlying conditions.

Management aims to reduce wetting and protect the child’s or person’s quality of life. Common strategies include moisture alarms that wake the sleeper at first wetting, regular daytime hydration and scheduled bedtime voiding, limiting fluids before bed, and treating constipation. Desmopressin can be used for short-term control in selected cases. Behavioral therapies and treatment of comorbid problems are important components. Most children respond to treatment, and spontaneous remission occurs with time; risk of persistence into adolescence or adulthood exists for a minority.

If bedwetting persists or is accompanied by daytime symptoms, medical evaluation is advised to rule out other conditions.